Springville Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Child Sex Abuse

Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announces that Joseph F. Decker, 66, of Springville, pleaded guilty this morning before State Supreme Court Justice Betty Calvo-Torres to one count of Attempted Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child (Class C violent felony).

Between on or about June 20, 2024, and on or about September 19, 2025, the defendant attempted to engage in at least two acts of sexual conduct with a child who was less than 13-years-old at a location in the Village of Springville. The defendant was known to the victim.

Decker faces a maximum of 15 years in prison when he is sentenced on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. He continues to be held without bail and will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release. Temporary orders of protection, issued on behalf of the victim and other associated parties, remain in effect.

DA Keane commends Detective Richard Lundberg and Erie County Sheriff's Office Investigative Services Unit for their work in this investigation as well as victim advocate Nicole Haffa.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Julie B. Fiske of the Special Victims Bureau and Assistant District Attorney Meredith M. Mohun of the Major Crimes Bureau.